Top 10 footballers with most goals from outside the box in 2024

Kylian Mbappe and Cole Palmer make it to this elite list.

Scoring a plethora of goals is always commendable, but the true artistry lies in delivering spectacular strikes from outside the box, a feat that blends precision, power, and unparalleled technique. In the fiercely competitive top-tier leagues of European football, such “golazos” transcend mere statistics, embodying moments of brilliance that fans cherish for a lifetime.

Mastering this exquisite skill is a rarity reserved for football’s most inventive and audacious talents, capable of turning the improbable into the extraordinary. From breathtaking free kicks to thunderous strikes that ripple the net from long range, these moments showcase the pinnacle of footballing genius.

In this feature, we unveil the standout performers who have elevated this art to new heights in 2024. Delving into Europe’s top five leagues, we spotlight the top 10 players who have scored the most goals from outside the box over the calendar year.

From established icons like Kylian Mbappe to emerging stars who have burst onto the scene with unforgettable strikes, this list celebrates both the familiar brilliance of football royalty and the fresh magic of lesser-known gems. Join us as we embark on a journey through the creative mastery, audacious attempts, and jaw-dropping moments of these long-range maestros.

10. Edon Zhegrova (LOSC Lille) – 4 Goals

Edon Zhegrova, the 25-year-old right-winger from Herford, Germany, has been a revelation for LOSC Lille, scoring four spectacular goals from outside the box in 2024. Known for his flair and technical brilliance, the Kosovo international joined Lille in 2022 after stints with Pristina and Basel. He has since surpassed 100 appearances for the French club, consistently delivering crucial contributions.

His standout performances earned him the UNFP Ligue 1 Player of the Month award in March 2024, further cementing his status as one of Ligue 1’s rising stars. As Lille aim to ascend in the Ligue 1 standings, Zhegrova’s ability to score long-range goals could prove vital in achieving their ambitions. His creativity and eye for the spectacular have made him a fan favourite, and he will be keen to carry this form into 2025. If Zhegrova continues his remarkable displays, he could play a pivotal role in Lille’s pursuit of domestic and European success.

9. Rodrigo De Paul (Atletico Madrid) – 4 Goals

Rodrigo De Paul, the 30-year-old Argentine right midfielder from Buenos Aires, has been a standout performer for Atlético Madrid, netting four stunning goals from outside the box in 2024. Since joining the club in 2021, he has showcased his versatility and skill, contributing 11 goals across more than 100 appearances. A pivotal figure for both club and country, De Paul has been integral to Argentina’s recent successes and Atlético’s dominance in LaLiga this season.

Currently leading the LaLiga standings ahead of giants like Barcelona and Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid will rely heavily on De Paul’s creativity and long-range brilliance to maintain their supremacy. As the reigning table-toppers, they aim to clinch the Spanish top-division title, and De Paul’s ability to deliver spectacular “golazos” could be crucial in their pursuit of glory in 2025.

8. Danilo Cataldi (Fiorentina, Lazio) – 4 Goals

Danilo Cataldi, the 30-year-old Italian central midfielder from Rome, has had a noteworthy 2024, scoring four goals, including three for Fiorentina since joining on loan from Lazio. Associated with Lazio since 2013, Cataldi made 188 appearances and netted seven goals for the club, while also serving loan spells with Genoa, Benevento, and now Fiorentina. His impact at Fiorentina has been significant, with 12 appearances and a consistent contribution in the midfield.

Cataldi has been a crucial player in Italy’s youth setup and boasts domestic silverware, having won the Coppa Italia in 2018-19 and the Supercoppa Italiana in 2019. Now, at Fiorentina, he aims to leverage his experience and playmaking skills to propel the team higher in Serie A, continuing his reputation as a dependable and versatile midfielder.

7. Jhon Duran (Aston Villa) – 4 Goals

Jhon Duran, the Colombian prodigy from Zaragoza, has emerged as a rising star since joining Aston Villa in 2023 after a stint with Chicago Fire. In 53 appearances for Villa, he has netted 12 goals, including four spectacular strikes from outside the box in 2024, showcasing his flair for long-range brilliance. His remarkable talent has earned him accolades such as the BBC Goal of the Month and Premier League Goal of the Month in September 2024, solidifying his reputation as a standout performer.

Duran has also been a pivotal player for the Colombian national team, with 15 appearances and his debut goal coming against Japan in the 2023 Kirin Challenge Cup. As Aston Villa aim to climb the Premier League standings, Duran’s exceptional ability to deliver match-winning moments will be critical, making him a player to watch in the English top flight.

6. Federico Valverde (Real Madrid) – 5 Goals

Federico Santiago Valverde, the Uruguayan maestro from Montevideo, has proven to be an indispensable asset for Real Madrid in 2024, scoring five remarkable goals from outside the box. After making his debut with the senior team in 2017, he has accumulated 193 appearances and 19 goals for the Spanish giants, with his knack for long-range strikes earning him recognition as one of the club’s most dangerous players. His contributions were pivotal in Real Madrid’s triumphs this year, securing both LaLiga and the UEFA Champions League titles.

Valverde’s sublime form has not only been key for his club but also enhances his reputation on the international stage with Uruguay. As Real Madrid continue to chase further glory under Carlo Ancelotti’s leadership, the 25-year-old will be looking to add more stunning long-range goals to his tally while helping Los Blancos ascend to even greater heights in both domestic and European football.

5. Granit Xhaka (Bayer 04 Leverkusen) – 5 Goals

Granit Xhaka, the 32-year-old Swiss maestro from Basel, has impressed in 2024 with five goals from outside the box, showcasing his knack for stunning long-range strikes. After beginning his career at FC Basel and making a significant impact at Borussia Mönchengladbach, Xhaka’s move to Arsenal in 2016 marked the beginning of a highly successful chapter, where he made over 200 appearances and scored 17 goals. His transfer to Bayer Leverkusen in 2023 brought a new lease of life to his career, playing a pivotal role in their historic unbeaten run to the German Bundesliga title.

As Leverkusen aim to defend their top spot in the German top division, Xhaka’s leadership and ability to score breathtaking goals from a distance will be crucial in their continued dominance. With 2025 on the horizon, the seasoned midfielder will be eager to maintain his form and add more golazos to his already impressive repertoire, solidifying his legacy in European football.

4. Phil Foden (Manchester City) – 5 Goals

Phil Foden, the 24-year-old English midfielder hailing from Stockport, has netted five goals from outside the box in 2024, further solidifying his growing reputation as one of the most talented midfielders in Europe. A pivotal figure in Manchester City‘s record-breaking Premier League triumphs, Foden’s brilliance has also been key in helping England reach the final of UEFA Euro 2024. Since making his senior debut in 2016, Foden has amassed 178 appearances for City, remaining steadfast in his commitment to the club despite numerous transfer rumours and tempting offers from elsewhere.

As Manchester City navigate through challenging times, Foden’s exceptional skill set and leadership will be vital in their pursuit of more silverware. His ability to produce game-changing moments, especially with those stunning goals from distance, will be crucial as the team looks to maintain its dominance domestically and in Europe. As City continue its campaign, it will be fascinating to see if Foden can keep his performances at an elite level and further cement his legacy with the blue half of Manchester.

3. Kylian Mbappe (PSG/Real Madrid) – 5 Goals

Kylian Mbappé’s journey in 2024 has been marked by some ups and downs, but his ability to score from outside the box has remained a defining aspect of his play. With five goals from long-range strikes, he has found himself among the elite players of the season in this particular category. Having started the year with Paris Saint-Germain, where he helped secure another Ligue 1 title, Mbappé then made his high-profile move to Real Madrid. While his transition to the Spanish capital hasn’t been as smooth as expected, he has still managed to make a significant impact, helping Los Blancos lift the FIFA Intercontinental Cup and the UEFA Super Cup.

Despite his heroics in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, Mbappé’s performances with the French national team have been somewhat lacklustre, with Les Bleus only reaching the semi-finals of UEFA Euro 2024. Nonetheless, Mbappé will be eager to turn things around, both for his country and for Real Madrid, as they look to continue their pursuit of silverware in 2025. His ability to score spectacular goals from outside the box remains a key weapon, and his determination to help elevate both his club and nation will be at the forefront as he aims for greater success in the coming year.

2. Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace) – 6 Goals

Eberechi Eze, the 26-year-old attacking midfielder from Greenwich, has been in stellar form in 2024, scoring six goals from outside the box. A product of the youth academies at Arsenal, Fulham, Reading, and Millwall, Eze’s journey took him to Queen’s Park Rangers in 2016, where he impressed with a century of appearances before securing a move to Crystal Palace in 2020. At Palace, he has made 127 appearances and scored 28 goals, establishing himself as a key player in their midfield.

Despite limited opportunities with the English national team, Eze has consistently delivered when called upon, showing his ability to make an impact on the big stage. As Crystal Palace look to climb higher in the Premier League standings, it remains to be seen whether Eze will remain loyal to his current club or seek a new challenge, with several top teams reportedly interested in his services. His future could be one of the most intriguing storylines of the upcoming transfer window, but for now, his role at Palace remains crucial to their aspirations.

1. Cole Palmer (Chelsea) – 7 Goals

Cole Palmer embodies the mantra of finding the right place to shine, where your talents are nurtured, valued, and recognized. As the standout player on our list, Palmer has scored an impressive seven goals from outside the box in 2024, making him the highest scorer in this category. After starting his career at Manchester City’s youth academy, Palmer struggled for prominence in Pep Guardiola’s star-studded squad. However, his move to Chelsea marked a pivotal turning point in his career, offering him the platform to flourish. Since joining the Blues, he has made 52 appearances and scored 34 goals, rapidly establishing himself as a key figure in their lineup.

His contributions have extended beyond club football, with Palmer becoming an important player for the England national team. In particular, his equalizer against Spain in the final of UEFA Euro 2024 was a moment of brilliance, keeping England’s hopes alive and earning him widespread acclaim. As he looks ahead to 2025, Palmer will be eager to help both his country and club secure more silverware, building on his stellar performances and cementing his place among football’s elite.

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